The Best Corkscrew

Chances are that between now and the end of the year, you'll be entertaining. And whether it's a small family gathering or a festive open house for the whole neighborhood, you're bound to be serving drinks of one kind or another. Personally, I like to keep it simple by offering red and white wine and sparkling water for the teetotalers and designated drivers.

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Throughout the year, I hear about countless corkscrews that claim to make it quicker, easier, better to open wine and I'm always somewhat amused because I've been using the same winged corkscrew most of my adult life. I find it works like a charm every time and has certainly passed the test of time. While it would be impossible for me to identify the brand so many years later, there's a similar one made by Pedrini at Amazon.com for about $10, which is probably five times what I paid for mine. If picking a good bottle at a reasonable price stumps you, be sure to see Good Housekeeping's Guide to Wine.

How much wine to buy? Wine connoisseurs say to plan for a bottle per person but that's when you're serving a multi-course dinner with different wines at every course and it amounts to 5 to 6 glasses per person--probably twice the amount you want to offer your guests unless it will be a very long evening and a short trip home.

If you're stocking up on wine glasses consider using stemless ones like I do at home. They're considered quite chic now, are a lot less likely to be knocked over, and can double as all-purpose glasses when wine's not on the menu. You can find Riedel's Vivant collection at Target or for an even greater value order some from Libbey.

Whatever you serve, remember it's your responsiblity to refuse to serve alcohol to minors and to make sure no one drives home under the influence. Stay safe, have a happy holiday, and come see us in the new year. Sign up for a tour of the famous Good Housekeeping Research Institute. If you visit, be sure to say hello when you come by the Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab.